How to Grow Emu Bush

iNaturalist

Emu Bush

Eremophila glabra subsp. obliqua

shrub

Emu Bush is a drought-tolerant Australian native shrub valued for its vibrant tubular flowers that attract nectar-feeding birds and insects. This subspecies is particularly hardy and adaptable, thriving in arid and semi-arid conditions with minimal maintenance once established. It grows as a compact to medium-sized evergreen shrub with fine, narrow foliage and prolific flowering displays.

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Example Emu Bush timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)

Plant Emu Bush
Around Apr 17

Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
Tend & protect
Late spring–summer

Watering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
Harvest Emu Bush
Late summer into fall

Before the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)

Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Emu Bush dates for your own zip code.

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Full sun, 6-8 hours daily; reflects Australian inland habitat

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Water: Water deeply when first planted to establish; reduce to minimal once established. Drought-tolerant after year one; avoid overwatering which causes root rot. In wet climates, water only during establishment phase.

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Spacing: 36 inches

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Days to maturity: N/A (ornamental shrub; flowers within 1-2 years from nursery plant)

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Planting depth: Plant at same depth as root ball; do not bury crown

Soil

Type: Well-draining sandy or gravelly soil; tolerates poor, infertile soils

pH: 6.0-7.5

Amendments:

Coarse sand or gravel Perlite or pumice for drainage Minimal organic matter (avoid heavy compost)

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Thrives in zones 9-11; tolerates zones 8b-9a with protection

9a 9b 10a 10b 11a 11b

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Growth Stages

Establishment

6-8 weeks

Young plant with developing root system; compact growth habit emerging

Water regularly for first 6-8 weeks; provide afternoon shade in very hot climates; avoid fertilizers high in nitrogen

Vegetative Growth

4-12 months

Plant develops dense, fine foliage with increasing branching; no flowers yet or early sporadic flowering

Maintain consistent (but light) watering; light pruning to encourage bushiness; minimal feeding required

Flowering

8-12 months (sporadic to continuous depending on conditions)

Abundant tubular flowers in red, orange, yellow, pink, or purple (depending on cultivar) appear on branch tips; flowers attract birds and insects

No deadheading needed; plant continues flowering for extended period; reduce water to trigger more blooms

Mature

Years 2+ (indefinite)

Established shrub with woody stems; dense canopy; regular annual flowering cycles

Minimal water except during extended drought; prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape; no fertilizers needed

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Westringia Prostanthera Hakea Acacia Grevillea Leptospermum Callistemon Phlomis

Avoid planting near:

Water-loving plants (Hydrangea, Azalea, Rhododendron) Plants requiring rich, fertile soils Species needing frequent watering or poorly-draining soil conditions

Common Pests

Ensure excellent drainage; reduce watering frequency; improve soil aeration; remove affected plants if severely infected
Increase humidity slightly around plant; spray with water; use neem oil if severe; encourage predatory mites
Strong water spray to dislodge; insecticidal soap; neem oil; reflective mulches deter adults
Remove manually with brush; horticultural oil spray; prune heavily infested branches; encourage natural predators

Uses

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Bird and Pollinator Attraction

Wildlife

The tubular flowers are specifically adapted to attract honeyeaters, lorikeets, and other nectar-feeding birds, as well as native bees and insects. In Australian gardens, this plant is a keystone species for supporting local bird populations. [source]

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Cut Flower Arrangements

Household

Vibrant, long-lasting flower stems make excellent cuts for fresh floral displays and arrangements. The flowers remain colorful for 1-2 weeks in water. [source]

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Nectar and Honey Production

Culinary

In regions with native beekeeping, Eremophila species are important nectar sources for honey and pollinator support, though nectar production is modest. [source]

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Ornamental Landscape Accent

Household

Its compact size, drought tolerance, and spectacular flowering make it ideal for water-wise gardens, Mediterranean-style landscapes, and desert gardens requiring minimal maintenance. [source]

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Traditional Aboriginal Use

Medicinal

Some Eremophila species have been traditionally used by Aboriginal peoples in Australia for medicinal purposes, though E. glabra subsp. obliqua specifically lacks documented traditional applications. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Not harvested for edible products. Enjoy fresh flowers on the plant or cut fresh stems with flowers for arrangements. Flowers typically last 1-2 weeks in a vase.

Fun Facts

🌱 Eremophila species are named 'emu bush' because emus disperse the sticky seeds by carrying them attached to their feathers and skin.
🌱 This subspecies thrives in inland Australian deserts where temperatures exceed 40°C (104°F) and rainfall is minimal—making it one of the most drought-tolerant ornamental shrubs available.
🌱 The genus Eremophila contains over 200 species, nearly all endemic to Australia, and is experiencing a surge in popularity in xeriscaping and Australian native gardens worldwide.

Gardening Terms

New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:

Annual Cultivar Deadhead Full Sun pH

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